Despite the loss of three starters in the secondary, the unit features two of the defense's best all-around athletes in safety Richard Torres and cornerback John Hardy-Tuliau. In addition, cornerback Tank Hopkins, a part-time starter during the 2009 season, returns following a medical redshirt season.

For much of last season, UH employed a five-man backfield, which included Torres and Hardy-Tuliau in the starting rotation. Torres, a senior from Kahuku, O'ahu, was the team's fourth leading tackler with 57. He also had two interceptions, five pass breakups, and recovered two fumbles.

As a true freshman in 2010, Hardy-Tuliau, of Temecula, Calif., made nine starts at nickelback and finished with 49 tackles, including five for loss, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and his one block, secured UH's win at Army.

The pair are expected to be the starting safties, with Torres the strong safety and Hardy-Tuliau at free safety.

Hopkins, a senior from Marlin, Texas, made three starts in 2009 and had five pass breakups. He returns in 2011 as a starting corner. Returnee Kawika Ornellas, a junior from Kapolei, O'ahu, has six career starts at corner, should also see playing time.

Also locking in a starting spot at corner is newcomer Mike Edwards, a highly-rated prospect from Cleveland, Ohio, who appeared in eight games as a true freshman for Tennessee in 2009.

Among the other returnees battling for playing time are Kamalani Alo, Kenny Estes, Steven Christian, Jordan Gomes and Leroy Lutu. Estes, a senior from Waimea, Kaua'i, has been a special teams standout his first three seasons, but should play a more prominent role this year.

Among the newcomers expected to contribute immediately is Brandon Leslie (College of the Sequois), who started his career at Georgia Tech. Freshman Mike Sellers, out of Campbell High School, has also impressed in fall camp.